Noffke signs up for Durham in 2005

Durham have signed Ashley Noffke for the English season in 2005, making him the second overseas player in the team, after Mike Hussey. Noffke is no stranger to the rigours of county cricket, as he took 45 wickets in eight games for Middlesex in 2003. His consistency with the ball and reliability with the bat in the lower order - averaging 25.86 - made him a target when Durham were recruiting.

Noffke was keyed up about the appointment, and spoke of performing well enough to help earn Durham promotion: "I am really excited about joining Durham. Their performance in the Totesport League this year indicates that there is huge potential in this squad and promotion should be in our sights for both forms of cricket next season. I am looking forward to playing a major role in helping the squad to achieve this."

Durham, for their part, were happy to have signed Noffke. "We are delighted that Ashley will be joining the squad next season," said Martyn Moxon, their coach. "As well as being a superb bowler he is an enthusiastic fielder who will contribute immensely to our team in the field and to next year`s assault on the leagues. Ashley is an experienced cricketer who will bring an element of leadership to the squad that will help our local talent flourish."

David Harker, Durham's chief executive, felt the same way: "Ashley and Mike's commitment to Durham certainly brings us a step closer to becoming a strong force in domestic cricket. Between them they bring a great deal of talent and a wealth of knowledge to the squad which will undoubtedly help us to progress in a positive direction."